Wright & McGill Granger Favorite Bamboo Fly Rod

Question
Mac,
Here's another rod that I need help deciding whether to fish  
or store as a collector.
Wright & McGill Granger Favorite 8'6".
Rod has 3 sections with an extra tip section.
Guide threads are mottled black and gold with gold accents.
Cork handle is in great condition.
Reel attaches by turning a nob on the end of the rod.
Reel attachment is metallic (dullish silver in color) and
says "Made by Wright & McGill Rod Co., Denver, CO USA".
Also says "1938" in very small print with an even smaller
number underneath that says "114107".
Canvas storage cloth is beige with no tags or markings.
It includes an aluminum storage tube with a screw cap.
This rod has no blemishes of any sort that I can find except
some very light (and I do mean very light) pitting of the
metal where the reel attaches.
Fish it or protect it as a collector?
Your feedback is much-appreciated.
Regards, - Russ  

Answer
Russ,
Books:
The Classic Angler  Value Guide for Bamboo Fly Rods
Antique & Collectable Fishing Rods: Identification & Value Guide Homel, Dan. 1997 (2nd edition 2000)
Bamboo Rod Restoration Handbook -Michael Sinclair
Classic & Antique Fly-Fishing Tackle: A Guide for Collectors & Anglers by AJ Campbell

History: http://home.myfairpoint.net/and96jac/fishnbanjossliceoflifeincyberspacecopy/id14...

The first four digits of each serial number are the year the rod was built and the remaining numbers are the chronological number of the rod; numbering did not start over each year. So your rod was made  in Nov of 1941.

Homel gives the Wright & McGill Granger model "Favorite" with an extra tip, 3 sections the  values of 90, 235 and 400 for the 8 footer and 70,   165 and 310 for the 9 footer; for poor, good, excellent condition respectively.
Your rod is inbetween these two values.  Run your finger on the finish, if not smooth then it is not in excellent condition. Most people over evaluate their bamboo rods.

Fish or keep it, it isn't worth thousands but it is really up to you. If you want more about condition send pictures to [email protected]. I love fishing bamboo so I would recommend that, but if you need the money I will be glad to sell it for you on commission.

Good Luck,
Mac
Please provide feedback, nominations are appreciated.